Frequently Asked Questions: This page contains answers to common questions of students and parents.

1. When can my child start and instrument?
2. Can a student start an instrument after 4th grade?
3. Why didn't my child get his/her first choice?
4. How much time should my child be practicing daily?
5. When are the concerts?
6. What is concert dress?
7. What do I do if a string breaks?

When can my child start and instrument?

Students start lessons in 4th grade.  Recruiting begins in the spring of 3rd 
grade.  Students attend an assembly where they are introduced to the 
instruments available.

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Can a student start an instrument after 4th grade?

Yes.  If the student is new to the school in fifth grade or did not play an 
instrument in 4th grade.  Students are not allowed to switch instruments.

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Why didn't my child get his/her first choice?

Just as it is important to have balanced teams for sports, it is important to 
have a balanced orchestra and band.  It would be very boring to have an 
orchestra of only violins or a band of only clarinets.  Students are asked to 
be sure they would be happy with their first AND second choices when 
selecting an instrument.

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How much time should my child be practicing daily?

4th Grade students are asked to practice 10 minutes daily in September and 
should be practicing 20 minutes by December.  5th Grade students should be 
practicing 25-30 minutes daily.  Encourage your child to practice daily, even 
when their schedule is very busy.  Even a few minutes playing scales or 
working on a small section of orchestra music is time well spent.  Be sure to 
write down the number of minutes practiced on their practice chart and sign 
it at the end of the week.

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When are the concerts?

The 4th and 5th grade orchestras perform in the Winter and in the Spring.  
You can check the exact date under "Concert Schedule".

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What is concert dress?

Boys- Pants (no jeans), shoes (no sneakers please) and a collared shirt.  
Girls- Dress, skirt or dress pants and an nice top.

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What do I do if a string breaks?

I generally have a number of spare strings on hand in the case a student 
breaks a string.  If I have the correct size, I will put a new string on 
and ask that you order a string to replace the one I put on so I will have it 
for other students.  If I do not have the correct size, you may order a new 
string in the correct size and I will put it on for you.

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